Changes

 

How quickly things change.  We were in Cleveland the week of July 16, to see Jenna's kids and had a great time. 

Now, we are going back for Joe's funeral.  I flip back and forth with my feelings about this.  I am angry at him at some level.  He beat cancer 3 times and kept right on smoking.  Right up until the end.  On the other hand, I feel so bad for my sister in law, Rose.  She dedicated her life to him from the moment they got married and especially in his last days.  She must be exhausted and yet, she goes on.  I know she has to.  I remember well, but it has been a long struggle for her.  

And so, the first of the six of us is gone.  Bob and Donna have been married for 52 years, Rose and Joe for 37 and Tony and I for 35.  I know the remaining four of us are hoping to get several more years in with our spouse, but only time will tell.  For now, we are a group of 5--an odd number for restaurants and parties; but five we will be. I don't want Rose to be left out of activities.  She deserves better than that.